Small Marine Aquariums Book 1: Invertebrates, Algae New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner	Small Marine Aquariums Book 2: Fishes New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner	Small Marine Aquariums Book 3: Systems New Print and eBook on Amazon: by Robert (Bob) Fenner

FOWLR Predator confusion 10/24/08 Thank you in advance for your information. I have been reading and getting some conflicting or at least confusing information on your site in one particular area. I am converting one of my reef tanks over to a predator tank. Not sure of the exact mix, but something along the lines of triggers, wrasses, maybe smaller puffers or dwarf lionfish. <Mmm, not Lions with these others... too likely to get picked on and/or starved> Anyway, I've always been use to having a large clean up crew. Obviously with this mix, they will just get eaten. <Yes> There have been many questions on your site about predator tanks and pieces of meat landing on the bottom etc, and some of the responses have been that's what your clean up crew is for???? <? Not from me... am not a fan of such reliance. Please cite specific instances, their location> After they had just named some of the most aggressive fish out there that was in their tank. So what clean up crew are they talking about that doesn't get eaten by say a clown trigger of dogface puffer? <None> If you can't have the typical cleanup crew, what do you use to keep your live rock and sand bed clean? <You, your gear, careful maintenance...> Thank you, Brian <Welcome. Bob Fenner>

Is It Okay To Add The Male bimaculatus Anthias First? 10/20/08 After over a year of searching for a trio (I've been unsuccessful in finding a group), I've given up and decided to pick up a 4.5" male Twinspot Anthias (Pseudanthias bimaculatus) in hopes of picking up two to three females sometime in the future. The male is currently in a 30 gallon quarantine and doing well, eating mysis and brine shrimp. <<Very good>> I've read conflicting reports that the females should be added first or at the same time as the male. <<This is the consensus for the best chance of a successful grouping, yes>> I had also read that there was a risk that by adding the females first, that the dominant female would eventually change to a male. <<More than just a risk if left too longbest to add the male within a week of introducing the females, in my opinion>> Lastly, I had read that it was possible that the male would likely bully females added after the male had been added. <<This too is true>> Will I be ok with adding two-three females with the male? <<Possibly>> Or is this asking for trouble? <<The more females added at one time the more any aggression will be spread aroundbe aware that the females too will establish a dominance hierarchy among themselves. Three is a good numberfive would be better (assuming the system can handle them)>> The main tank is currently a 100 gallon set up over a year and a half old, FOWLR. The tank is currently inhabited by a pair of 1.5" Ocellaris Clowns, a 4" Raccoon Butterfly, a 4.5" Achilles Tang, <<Mmma delicate species that needs a bigger tank than this>> a 3.5" Queen Angel, <<Also too much fish for this size tank>> a 3" Mystery Wrasse, a 3" Algae Blenny, and a 3" Eibli Angel. I know, too many fish for a tank this size. <<Not too many for the tank so much as just inappropriate species selection re>> I have a 240 gallon tank currently being set up, which will be the FOWLR for the Queen Angel, Raccoon Butterfly, Eibli Angel, and probably the Achilles Tang with eventually more fish. <<The Queen Angel can reach 20 in the wildand the Achilles needs lots of swimming room (and lots of water flow). With an eye toward the future, I would be reluctant to add anything but a few very small fishes here>> The 100 will be converted over to a reef with the clowns, mystery wrasse, algae blenny, and trio of bimaculatus Anthias. <<Do be aware the Clowns may pose a problem re the AnthiasI have seen Damsels chase small Anthiines to the point they jump from the tank in an effort to escape>> Which, by the way, would it be ok to add one of the fairy wrasses to the 100 with the mystery wrasse? Or will they fight? <<A similar or smaller sized specimen will likely be attacked>> I enjoy reading your site and many thanks in advance! Wes <<We are all happy to share. Regards, EricR>>

Tankmate for Snowflake Eels and Friends, Tulip/Conch comp.,  10/16/08 I am in a school with three large marine tanks - one 55 gallon predator (will be expanding to meet the needs of these guys as they grow), one 75 gallon reef tank, and one 500 gallon touch tank. The predator tank has two snowflake eels (10 - 12") one volatin <Volitans?> lionfish (5") one dogfaced puffer (4") and two wrasse (one clown and one lunar). <Better not confuse the predator with the touch tank, hehe. Oh, and medium sized wrasses have been eaten by larger Echidna eels. You will need a big upgrade in the not-so-far-away future.> The touch tank has a beautiful Tulip Snail who has worn out his welcome. He is unkindly ridding my tank of all the other cleaners! <Yes very, very predatory. Does best in a one-specimen tank.> I have considered moving the Tulip to the "predator" tank but want to be sure he will not be bullied/injured by any of these current residents or be a threat to them. <The latter. Wrasses and puffers sleep at night (partly), are still small and might become prey, even the eels are a little small. In addition, the puffer would become a threat to the snail, molluscs are their favourite prey.> I could use a cleanup crew (even of one) in this tank. The tulip is quite large 7-8". If he is not suitable for this tank, could you make other suggestions for cleaners for this tank which won't be consumed by the predators. What about chocolate chip starfish? <Would have been among my suggestions if you provide a good water quality. Can work in your predator tank, just keep the puffer away from the star for a few hours, he might try to sample it due to its new smell.> Any other ideas? <Very well armoured hermits.> I also would love to try a coral here or there, but "Puff" (dogface) liked the looks of the rock anemone I recently tried briefly way too much! <You can try a mushroom (Corallimorph), they taste nasty and are disliked my many puffers (not all, though). Another option might be a photosynthetic gorgonian or a leather coral, if you have reasonable lighting. However, it cannot be predicted what the puffer will eat and what he wont eat, they really are individuals with regard too some of their foods.> Thanks for your help. <Welcome. Marco.>

Stocking and moving Plan for 220 Gallon FOWLR Tank 10/15/08 Hello Crew, <Sean> I'm upgrading from a 120g to a 220g FOWLR (72L*24W*30H) that will be set up as an island display with visibility from all 4 sides. The overflows will be in the corners, live rock will be in the middle (with plenty of see-through/swim-through areas) and the area between the rocks and the glass on all 4 sides will be left as open swim lanes. After much research, I've finally narrowed down my "wish list" (shown with adult fish size): * Rock Beauty Angel (8") <Mmm, a rare male... start much smaller... and this Holacanthus sp. is not easily kept... do read my acct. on WWM re> * Flame Angel (4") * Red Sea Golden Butterfly (9") <Better in pairs/twos... I'd skip one of the other B/F's and get two> * Saddleback Butterfly (9") * Blue Striped Butterfly (5") <A neat species... C. fremblii> * Purple Tang (10") * White-Faced Tang - a. japonicus not a. nigricans (8") * 2 False Percula Clowns (already paired) (3.5") * 3 Bartlett's Anthias (4") * Orangetail Blue Damsel (3") * Mystery Wrasse (5") * Six-line Wrasse (3") (About 83" total.) I realize that the Rock Beauty requires plenty of sponge in its diet, and I've seen plenty of suggestions for food sources on your website, so I really want to give it a try, as this is easily my favorite fish. So, on to my questions... * Bio Load - What size sump and what size refugium would you recommend for this to be a "safe" bio load with a 220g tank? <Mmm, the biggest/largest you can fit in, really> I am not limited to space inside the stand, as the sump and refugium will be located in the basement below the tank. <Look into Rubbermaid's troughs...> * Big Fish - The above includes 5 fish that are 8-10" in length. Is this too many "big" fish for this size tank? <Mmm, no... given the shape, volume of the system... I don't think these animals will really approach their maximum sizes stated... Maybe half to two-thirds over years time> * Aggression - The above includes a total of 7 angels, tangs and Butterflyfishes, which are reasonably similar in shape and diet. I only have 2-3 of each species, and with the exception of the Butterflyfishes, only one of each genus. I'm hoping that the genus mixture, coupled with the large tank size (with double the swim lanes resulting from the island set-up) will minimize the chance of aggression, or is this an accident waiting to happen? <Mmm, no... I give you very good odds that you'll be fine here> If so, would the situation be helped much if I "downgraded" the Golden Butterflyfish to a Lemonpeel Angel and/or "downgraded" the White-faced Tang to a Tomini Tang so that I have fewer of the "big" fish? <Not really an issue> * Wrasse - I've read that sixlines can be aggressive toward small, peaceful wrasse. Should I be concerned about the Sixline harassing the mystery wrasse in a tank this size? <Mmm, no... s/b plenty of room for them to avoid each other> If so, I might get a more peaceful radiant wrasse instead of the Sixline. Also, I've read some sources which indicate that all three of these could go after small ornamental shrimp, <Can, do> while other sources indicate that they are completely reef safe and won't harm invertebrates. <Mmm, not so> What's your impression? Would peppermints, skunk cleaners and fire shrimp be OK with all three? <If all are well fed... better than even chances of getting along> * Algae control - Without coral, I'll be able to go with minimal lighting, and I'll keep the temps around 76", but the tank will be exposed to quite a bit of direct sunlight. As this is a big, deep tank, I want to avoid having to go scuba diving to keep algae under control, so the stocking plan includes a lot of algae eaters. (I'll supplement with seaweed and algae in the feedings in case algae levels aren't quite high enough.) I've read that the Kole tang is the best for hair and bubble algae, but I just don't find it as appealing as the other fish in my wish list. Does the purple tang go after bubble algae? <Mmm, no, not as much by far> Does the white-faced tang or the Tomini tang go after it? <The genus Ctenochaetus are best here, and with micro-algal species that are palatable> I believe they all go after hair algae, right? <Yes> I know that emerald crabs eat bubble algae, but I also read many of your FAQs which indicate that they come with their own set of potential problems... Also, what critter(s) would you recommend for keeping the sand free of algae? <A sand stirring goby or two perhaps (genus Valenciennea), and/or a goatfish sp.> I have Nassarius snails and a sand sifting star in my 120g, but I still get a bit more algae on the sand than I would like. I may not have enough Nassarius snails stirring up the sand... * Angels - I know that a tank should be up and running for 6 months before adding angels. Since most of the rocks and sand will come from the old system that has been "live" for more than 6 months, how long should I wait before introducing the angels into the new system? Also, should the angels be introduced last, or should the tangs be introduced last? <S/b fine to add once the system is stabilized... let's say in a week or two> * Skimmer(s) - Some sources recommend using 2 skimmers of different types for large tanks. What types would you recommend here? Any particular brands/models that you would recommend here? <One of good quality will do... RK2, EuroReef, AquaC...> * Wet-dry trickle with live rocks vs. using only live rock - I've read/heard strong recommendations on both sides of this argument. What do you think would be best in this setup? <The LR> * The Big Move - My plan is to first fill the new system with RO/DI water to run and check for leaks, then mix the salt right in the system. But then what? Should I gradually do daily water changes from the old system to the new system and gradually move live rocks from the old system to the new system (adding new cultured rocks to the old system) until the new system tests well? <Mmm, likely once all is mixed, settled in water wise, mixing just once, some of the old water for the new... then next week, moving all the old into the new...> Or would I be better off with a big bang approach -- i.e., after the new water is fully mixed and salinity/temperature adjusted in the new system, drain some of the water from the new tank, add all the new cultured live rock to the new tank and move all of the water and live rocks from the old system to the new system? <This, with the one intermittent period> This would then be the equivalent of a massive water change, since the livestock would have all of their old water and live rocks/sand, but lots of new water, too. Or is it possible that some water parameter may get out of balance? (The only inhabitants of my 120g that will need to make the move are 2 clowns, 3 Anthias, 2 serpent stars, the sand star, a peppermint shrimp, a skunk cleaner shrimp and various snails and hermits.) <Best to mix, back and forth at least once...> Sorry for so many questions. Thanks so much for your help (and for all of the great articles and FAQs on you website that have greatly helped my research). <No worries, glad to conspire with you. Bob Fenner>

Re: Stocking Plan for 220 Gallon FOWLER Tank, esp. dwarf lion comp.  8/18/08 Bob, this is all VERY helpful. Thanks much. I'd also really appreciate your opinion on a modified version of the plan that would include a lionfish. I had given up on the idea of a lion in my 120g so that I could have more fish rather than a smaller group of bigger fish. In the 220g, it's worth reconsidering. Here's a modified stocking list (also updated for your prior input): * Dwarf Zebra Lion (7") * Rock Beauty Angel (8") * Flame Angel (4") * Coral Beauty Angel (4") * Saddleback Butterfly (9") * Pearlscale Butterfly (6") * Blue Striped Butterfly (5") * Purple Tang (9") * White-Faced Tang (8") * Bristletooth Tomini Tang (6") * White Stripe Maroon Clown (6") * 3 Lyretail Anthias (4.7" ea) * Mystery Wrasse (4.7"?) * 2 Diamond Gobies (6" ea) This is a bigger fish load than the original plan, so would I now be in potential danger territory for aggression, or will they likely behave given the extra swim lanes provided by the island setup? <All this could/should work... the Lion may eat the gobies...> I'm assuming bio load would still be OK with a large sump/fuge, despite the fact that the lion is a messy eater, right? <Yes> Assuming I get the lion transitioned to only eating frozen food while in QT, will these other fish let me get a feeding stick to the lion without trying to intercept it so that he doesn't starve? <Likely so> I've seen the mystery wrasse listed anywhere from 3-5". Since I don't know the real size, is this safe with the lion? <If the Lion is started small... this Pseudocheilinus is usually "smart" to avoid Dendrochirus, and lives more in and about the midwater rock work... the Lion and the gobies though... on the bottom...> If not, would a radiant wrasse (4.5") be safe? <Safer> Also, are the Lyretails and Gobies safe? <Not entirely, no> I know smaller fish would be at risk, but I'm not sure if any of these would fit in his big mouth. <Oh, can> I believe a Fathead Anthias is taller than the Lyretail while being just as long, so that could be an option (though just one male if I get this one), or are the other fish too aggressive for the Fathead? <I'd skip on a/the Serranocirrhitus here... too likely to "get lost" in your setting. Bob Fenner>

Re: Stocking Plan for 220 Gallon FOWLER Tank 8/18/08 Thank you SO much! I'll skip the Anthias and Gobies. Maybe get a Goatfish or just rely on the snails and sand stars to keep the sand clean. <Ah, good> I'll get a larger mystery wrasse, let him get started in the tank first, then get a small lion. Thanks again! Sean Patrick Whelan <Welcome Sean. BobF>

FOWLR Stkg.   10/12/08 HI WWM crew <Dean> I'm starting a 5ft saltwater aquarium. FOWLR. With separate external filter sump. The fish I want to get are as follows. 4 percula clowns 1 longnose butterfly 1 scopas tang 1 coral beauty 1 royal gramma Are all these fish compatible and suitable for the tank <Yes> Are there any in the list that could prove difficult to care for <Mmm, perhaps the Butterfly... I would place it last... giving the organisms on your rock, many going on to populate the substrate, opportunity to spread, stabilize this system... and do take special care in picking out the Angel... some specimens of coral beauties are very "rough"... almost impossible to "turn around" from their collection, handling, shipping damage... Do read on WWM re livestock selection, this Centropyge in particular> Thanks a lot. Dean <Welcome. Bob Fenner>
Re: FOWLR lvstk.  10/12/08 Would any other fish be able to be added or would that be the maximum amount of livestock for that tank Thanks alot <... no such word> Dean <Others could go with adequately breaking up the environment... with rock, decor... B>  would I be able to keep a coral banded shrimp in this aquarium? Thanks Dean <S/b.>
Re: FOWLR lvstkg  10/14/08 thanks The tank is 5' by 1' will this narrowness interfere with any of the fishes natural behaviour <Yes, can indeed. B>

Tank-stocking agenda, FOWLR, 55  09/12/08 Awesome resource, everyone. Thanks for the invaluable information! <Welcome> Experienced freshwater/cichlid aquarist wading (sorry ;-) ) into saltwater for the first time. <Ahh, zee plongee!> I'm nearing the end of my cycling process in a 55 gallon set up. I have 53 lbs LR and about 2" (+/- 50 lbs) of a seeded LS mix (about 40% live, 60% non-living when I added it). My water quality is right on: ammonia = 0, salinity = 1.023, <I'd raise this... to NSW strength... 1.025-6> Temp = 77-78F and steady. Two small powerheads create some decent movement in opposite corners, both toward the center of the tank. My next step is a satellite lighting system then hopefully some inverts/fish which is why I'm writing. My intentions/hopes are: 1 Maroon Clownfish <Can become a bruiser... the only fish here in some cases> (or 2 Ocellaris or Perculas), 1 Australian Scott's Fairy Wrasse, 1 juvenile Koran Angel, <Mmm, no... not enough room> 1 juvenile Bursa or Picasso Trigger. <Ditto> I'd like to add a BTA as well and maybe a long-spined urchin or two. <... wait off on these till you have more experience...> My questions are 1.) When adding an anemone and clownfish in hopes to create a hosting situation, which should be added first? <See WWM in future, but don't try just yet...> 2.) How 'mature' must a tank be before adding a BTA? <Mature... a few to several months...> 3.) I know I'm probably hopeful beyond most experiences intending a Bursa/Picasso in a tank with a BTA and long-spined urchins; provided that the Trigger is small when introduced (2") is it at all likely that a.) it won't bother either or b.) the Clown will protect its anemone (obviously this assumes it takes the BTA as its host). <Not going to happen in this small volume. I discourage your trying> As of now I plan to introduce the fish in an order as follows: 1. Maroon Clown, 2. ASF Wrasse, 3. Koran Angel, 4. Trigger. Is this advisable? <No> When should I try the BTA or do you advise against it altogether? <The latter> I've asked several questions in one, I hope you can make sense of it in the format I've used. Thanks again for all the info. You've offered a huge amount of help in the process thus far and certainly will continue to do so. Joe V. <Keep reading for now Joe... I don't want you to get so bummed out from bad experiences that you give up the hobby. What you propose here won't work. Bob Fenner>
Re: Tank-stocking agenda, FOWLR, 55  9/12/08 Bob, <Joe> I appreciate the quick response. And thanks for the suggestions. Don't worry about my being put off by the info; I'm searching for the right information because at this point I prefer to learn by researching rather than (bad) experience. <You are wise here> For the sake of the process, the money spent and most of all, providing the proper environment for these guys. I'll reconsider, keep reading and let you know what I arrive upon. Next time I write it me be re: 200 gallons ;-) Thanks again. Joe V. <Welcome! BobF>

Wrasse Compatibility/Stocking - 55 gal FOWLR  9/18/09 Crew, I'm currently in the process of planning my stock for a 55 gallon FOWLR tank. Obviously for any new tank there can be tons of options so while it's an exciting time, I'm committing myself to having the plan laid out before making any expensive purchases or costly stocking decisions. Upon Bob's better judgment I've scrapped Plan A (Maroon, Fairy, Koran, Bursa) and it's back to the drawing board. <Good> I'm showing 0 Ammonia, 0 Nitrites, 8.0-8.4 pH, 1.026 specific gravity (upped that a bit a week ago on Bob's recommendation - Thanks again!) 10-20 Nitrates ppm. 53 lbs LR, 2-3" LS (~50 lbs). A few questions in specific regards to Wrasses: 1. I'm strongly considering 2 species. A Sixline (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia) and a Scott's Fairy (Cirrhilabrus scottorum) (My LFS currently has a beautiful 4" Australian specimen; though it also has a beautiful 3-digit price tag.) So the question here is which should I introduce to the system first? The Scott's Fairy or the smaller, though probably more feisty Sixline (2")? <Mmm, what else is to go here?> 2. Also, I've seen a few references made on WWM as to QT and Wrasses. Should typical QT practices not apply to Wrasses? Should I just drip acclimate, dip and add? <I would do the latter with these species> 3. I'd also like to add a Maroon Clown. Which should I add first of these three? Or is this a one-or-the-other situation? <I would not keep a Premnas in this size, shape system with other fishes... It's too likely to bully them... to the extreme. Read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/marclncompfaqs.htm> 4. I understand the Sixlines offer a bit of 'housekeeping' by feeding on small LR inhabitants. Is a general diet of Mysis, Brine, et al. sufficient for the Sixline in addition to what the LR/LS already offers? <Yes> Thanks so much, Joe V. <Please... learn to/use the search tool, indices... on WWM. BobF>

New Tank Stocking 09/08/08 Good day Crew, <Eric> Thank you in advance for your assistance. I read so much on a daily basis.. at times the words run together! <Mmm... I try drinking less coffee and caffeinated diet sodas... getting up, away every hour or so from the keyboard... reflecting paragraph to paragraph, asking myself "what is this saying?"> I am setting up a new saltwater tank and just have a quick question. I have a bare tank (in the planning stages.. have yet to figure out filtration, etc. I have not bought any of the following livestock or the filtration system. It will be well filtered with high levels of mechanical and biological filtration, and will of course have a great skimmer. Here is my proposed stock list: 1. Zebra Moray Eel (Gymnomuraena zebra) 2. Yellow Eye Kole Tang (Ctenochaetus strigosus) 3. Flame Angel (Centropyge loriculus) 4. Wrasse (Lunare, Blue, or some other related Wrasse) 5. Long Spine Urchin (Diadema setosum) 6. Turbo Snails (Turbo sp.) <These last two may prove incompatible with the Eel and Wrasse> The most important are the Zebra Eel and the Flame Angel. <These two can co-exist fine together... the Gymnomuraena needs a good volume more... at least a hundred gallon system> I am a bit concerned re: the Compatibility of the Flame and the Kole (will add the Kole first) <These two should do fine together as well> and I'm concerned about the Eel/Wrasse and the Urchin. <You should be... too likely the eel will damage itself... the Thalassomas will eat them if hungry> I have read that the Urchin has the long spines to protect itself, but I'm a bit doubtful. Again, thank you very much for your assistance! Eric <Do keep reading, accumulating notes for now... This is the best path to assuring future success. Bob Fenner>
Re: New Tank Stocking, FOWLR  9/9/08 Hi Bob, <Eric> I really appreciate the help. I've been doing a ton of reading, and actually (after writing) saw a picture of 2 Lunare Wrasses dismantling and eating an Urchin, so that's a no go. Also, I wouldn't want the clumsy (and somewhat vision impaired) Eel getting hurt by the spines. <Good> I forgot to mention that I have a 75 gallon tank, so I think that the Zebra eel will be out. <Agreed> I've read a lot of conflicting info.. some say 75 gallons is the minimum, some say 100 gallons.. I tend to think it grows too large for my 75 and will be a messy eater. <See my article re this species on WWM...> Here's my updated list, in order of introduction. Can you give a moderate critique? (I promise this won't be a recurring theme!) <I can, will> 1. Small shoal of Damsels (lesser aggressive types, such as the Yellow-Tailed Blue or possibly Chromis, though I bet they'll get picked on by the Wrasse) 2. Kole Tang 3. Snowflake Eel (friendlier than most eels, and smaller than Zebra) 4. Flame Angel 5. Lunare Wrasse <This mix could work... as you state/hint, the Lunare may prove to be too raucous...> All these previously mentioned fish will be added at about a rate of 1 per month or so, and I'll buy them small. Once the fish start getting bigger, I'll relocate the Damsels to other tanks ( I have other homes for them). <Ah, good> Does this seem like the correct order? Also, slight possibility of the tank being overstocked? <I'd place in the order you list above> Thanks again, I honestly appreciate it!! Eric (P.S... in my research, I went to YouTube and saw some videos of my prospective fish 'in action'.. good place to go for additional insight, although I wouldn't trust their information.. I saw a video that had a Bamboo shark and about 1/2 dozen other small- too large fish in a 75 gallon tank! awful..) <Thank you for this. Bob Fenner>

FOWLR compatibility question?, 9/4/08 First off I have to say I love your site and use it regularly to research new fish and also to gain new information. <Great> I currently have a 46 gal tank with about 75 pounds of live rock and also have about 50 pounds of live sand. As of right now I have one flame cardinal and a dwarf or falco hawk and I was thinking about adding one or two more fish to my system in which I would like to get a Valentini puffer and/or a Picasso trigger. <The Picasso gets way to big for this tank, the Toby may work, but I would be concerned with the Hawkfish, which it may nip due to it's sedentary behavior.> I have been looking for a hardy fish that is also very active and entertaining to watch and happen to come across these two at the my LFS and was wondering what your opinion would be on these two fish? Thanks Chris <Definitely no on the trigger, and I would probably skip the Toby as well. Perhaps on of the smaller wrasses or a pair of good old clowns would work here. Lots of other choices available as well.> <Chris>

FOWLR System Stocking 08/29/08 Dear Crew, <<Steve>> I have a Sea Clear system II 125, already aged 3 yrs with a 1 mandarin, 1 yellow tang, 1 blue tang, 7 chromis, 1 imperator angel, 1 Pseudochromis, 1 cleaner shrimp, 1 clown, 1 coral beauty, 1 emerald crabs. All doing very well. Are these guys compatible with a Naso tang and Heniochus acuminatus butterfly fish? <<Compatible, yes but too much for this already well stocked tank. Best to pass on these additions and allow the fishes you have to continue to mature, grow, and live with some room to do so, in my opinion>> Thank you, Steve <<Happy to share. EricR>>

Stkg. 75 gal., FIWLR  7/20/08Hi all, It's me again, sorry about all the stocking questions all the time, just don't want to over crowd, and I still have fish I would love to have if I could. Right now, I have a Pink Skunk Clown fish, a Six line Wrasse, a Flame Angel, 3 Green Chromises, a Lawnmower Blenny, a Fire fish, a Chalk Bass, a Serpent Star, a Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, 2 Feather Dusters, 2 Emerald Crabs, a Sally Light Foot, and assorted Mushrooms all in a 75 gallon tank. I have a Remora Pro, and an Emperor 400 that I only run with 2 generic cut to fit filter pads, and 80 lbs of live rock. I do a 20% water change, replace the filters in the Emperor, and clean the protein skimmer pre filter every Friday morning. I wanted to know if you think this is maxed out. What I still really like for fish are, another Pink Skunk Clown, a Fairy Wrasse, another star fish, and or more Mushrooms. I would also like to take out the three Chromis and give them to a friend. Do you think I can add any of these to my tank with/without taking out the Green Chromises? And if so, which ones? Also, how would suggest getting the Green Chromises out of the tank? Aside from taking the whole take apart. And last, how often would you suggest giving the whole protein skimmer a vinegar bath, to clean out the inside. Thanks again, Marc P.S. Do you think feeding the fish a half of cube of frozen food once in the morning and once at night is sufficient, or too much? <I do not believe your aquarium is maxed out. A 75 gallon tank is large enough for fish such as clowns, fire fish, etc. You may want to add a tang such as a yellow or purple, maybe even a bristle mouth tang such as a Chevron or Kole for algae control. I would also clean the protein skimmer as it becomes full with waste. Hope this helps, IanB>

Stocking question, Marine 7/4/08 Hey Guys, <Hello> I really enjoy the site, lots of great info there! <Thanks> I have some questions about the stocking of my tank, and what you think of it so far. I have a 30 Gallon saltwater system, with 35 pounds of live rock, a Prizm Skimmer, (rated for 100 gal) <Does not have a great reputation.> two smallish powerheads for circulation. I have finished adding fish to it, I added them over a period of a few months, one or two at a time. The order went as such 1 Ocellaris Clown (Genghis), followed by two more a few weeks later (Kublai and Attila) as I was told that adding just one more would lead to one of them probably killing the other. <Actually 2 will most likely pair up and kill the third as they mature.> The cleanup crew came after that, over a period of a few weeks. The cleanup crew comprises 2 scarlet hermits, five tiny blue legged hermits, five neisseira <Nassarius?> snails, and a Monaco shrimp (Paul). Finally I have added a scooter blenny and a coral beauty angelfish. <Both of these need larger tanks, the angel will outgrow this tank and the scooter "blenny" (really a dragonet) will not be able to find sufficient food.> I don't plan on adding any more. The fish are all eating well and swimming around fairly energetically. The clowns have found a niche by the heater, and the Angel sits behind one chunk of live rock most of the time, coming out and swimming around every now and again. They come out a lot more during the day. Am I overstocking this tank? <Not really overstocked, but inappropriately stocked in my opinion.> Every other site I have found states that a 30 gal tank should be sufficient and my LFS said it should be fine, but I don't want the fish to be unhappy so want to check as your site suggests a larger tank for what I have. <I would agree with what you found on our site.> I am also having a lot of algae problems... though I was told this is normal for a new tank... I'm getting brown algae, lots of green hairy algae, and following that a but of this nasty purple goopy stuff that bubbles a lot (I'm guessing Cyanobacteria, so I try to clean it out when it happens). <Its common for this to happen in new tanks, but you want to control it as best as you can since it is quite difficult to remove once it has gotten a foothold.> It usually comes back a few days after I've cleaned it off. I do a 3-5 gal water change every couple weeks, and my water chemistry is as follows S.G 1.026, pH 8.3-8.4, Alkalinity is in the normal range, Temp 78-79 F, Nitrate almost 0, Ammonia is less than .25, but above zero, though this is a few days after adding the last fish so probably doing a little cycle of sorts. <Watch this very closely, ammonia is very toxic even in small amounts, be prepared for extra water changes.> Should I expect the algae to go away soon, or should I try switching to RO/DI water? <I use RO/DI, removes some guesswork, but time will tell if you need it or not.> (Currently use tap water but it apparently has no nitrate, phosphate etc when I tested it). <Good> I also cut back on the amount I feed them, I feed them New Life Spectrum flakes with garlic, some green Nori seaweed, and mysis shrimp (frozen) for some variety. <May want to feed every other day for a while to get the algae under control.> I do hope to eventually add some soft corals too. Does this tank have a chance of succeeding? <You have some stocking issues, but the basic setup has a good chance of success.> I'd hate for anything to die or even suffer here. Thanks so much for your help. I have looked over a LOT of your stocking suggestions etc, but nothing that really addressed my specific situation. Eric <I would look for new homes for 1 of the clowns, the angel, and scooter blenny, then find a couple of more appropriate fish.> <Chris>

Aquarium Sizing & Such, Marine Stocking 6/22/08 Hi, I have a kind of silly question to ask. First, I have 10+ years of freshwater experience, 4 years of brackish and 1+ years of marine. So my basement looks like a fish store, lol. Anyway I would like to set up a show tank, preferably about 200 gallons. Currently I only have damsels and clowns in FOWLR systems. I've learned not to trust coral. The fish I would love to have would be 1 Dwarf Zebra Lionfish 1 Blue Dot Puffer 1 Powder Brown Tang 1 Metallic Foxface Rabbitfish 3 Banggai Cardinal Fish 1 Coral Beauty Angelfish Now I have friends who keep fish too but not really of the kind I'm looking for. One problem is some say yes and some say no. One problem would be that the Blue Dot Puffer would nip at the Dwarf Lionfish, but one of my friends say that as long as the puffer is fed, he won't be a problem. <Not often related to feeding, more along the lines of general aggression/territorial issues. Depends on the individual personalities of the fish.> Is that correct, or do I owe my friend a smack? <Smack them anyways.> Another would be that the Lionfish would eat the Banggai Cardinals, but again, I've heard if there is enough rockwork that they are fast enough to not become meals, and if the lionfish is fed right, there won't be a problem with him anyway. <If they can fit in his mouth the lion will most likely try to eat it, and it only has to get it right once.> Is that all correct? I've also looked up how big an aquarium should be, but it only comes up per fish. If it's all added up, it should be a 350 gallons. That just seems like it would be too much open space to not enough fish. <Not really possible in my opinion but I know what you mean.> So would it be ok to place them in a 200 or 250 gal? <This would probably work, the tang needs the most room here, at least six feet of straight line swimming room.> Is 350 the minimum? I want to move my hobby upstairs, that is why I want a show tank. I'm just afraid a 350 gal (even a 250) might be too heavy and bust through the floor. <Definitely a concern.> I live in a house built in 1950. How do I test my floors without taking the risk of just filling up a 350? <I would call a professional and have them take a look.> Sorry if this is just a "duh!" question. Thank you for your time. <Welcome>
<Chris>

Compatibility -FOWLR stocking, triggers, puffers 05/30/2008 Hi Guys, <<And ladies I hope....Andrew with you this evening>> I just have a quick query; your website has been really useful but I just want to ask something specific. I'm considering a marine FOWLR setup. I have fallen in love with three fish, and I just wanted to know 1. would they get along and 2. what sort of a tank size would best fit these guys (I'm guessing pretty big, but would like to see if it is within price and room!) The fish are a Pinktail trigger, a narrow-lined puffer (Arothron manilensis) OR dogface; both are cute, and the last is the fuzzy dwarf lionfish that's just too... fuzzy to resist. Could these three ever get along and in what size of tank? <<Three very nice fish indeed. I don't see any problems with the puffer and the trigger in a tank of about 200 gal plus ( they both can get pretty large, especially the trigger, which can reach about a foot, sometimes a little more, and about 3/4 of a foot for the puffer, in captivity)...I would not add a lion in with these due the to the aggressive nature of them, and I feel the Lion would ultimately meet its demise through harassment>> Thanks a lot in advance, your website has been such a great resource Jo <<Thanks for the questions, please do read more on these species here, including linked articles and FAQ's. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/melichthys/index.htm  http://www.wetwebmedia.com/tetraodontpuffers.htm
 http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dendrochirus.htm Hope this helps.
A Nixon>>  

90 gallon fowler, stkg. 5/17/08 Dear wet web media crew, I have a 90 gallon fowler tank with two false Percula clowns, one falcula butterfly, a valentini puffer, a hippo tang, a coral beauty, a six lined wrasse, and two fire fish. I was just wondering how many more fish I can add. It has a 20 gallon sump and a huge skimmer. It has an overflow and170 pounds of live rock. thanks. <Depends on the species... some smaller ones might be able to be fitted here... perhaps some Apogonids, Anthiines... Bob Fenner>

FOWLR stocking order- Stocking Compromises 5/7/08 Thank you in advance for your help. <We're happy to be of service. Scott F. in tonight!> Your site has been invaluable for me in setting up my tank. I have just set up a 180 gal FOWLR tank with 200lbs LR, Euro Reef RS180 skimmer, 2 X Tuneze 6060 Stream pumps. I would appreciate your opinion about selection and stocking order of the following: Flame Hawkfish, Yellow Tang, Auriga BF, Longnose BF, Hippo Tang and Passer Angel. <Well, first of all, although you have chosen an interesting array of fish, I'd be hesitant to stock your aquarium with all of them. I'd make some compromises here. In particular, I would only go with one of the Tangs, and one of the Butterflies. I'd recommend the Yellow Tang and the Longnose Butterfly. The Hippo simply gets huge, and really requires an even larger aquarium than the one you have to live a long and healthy life. I'd also pass on he full size Passer Angelfish. It's another fish that gets very large and requires an equally large aquarium. Really, to accommodate the entire collection that you contemplate, it will require an aquarium of hundreds of gallons, and at least 8 feet in length. If you really want to have an Angelfish, I'd definitely select a Centropyge (dwarf) Angelfish, which will have a smaller need for physical space than the Passer. In stocking, it's all about compromises, so please keep this in mind and you'll be successful with your aquarium! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

Compatible fish? FOWLR 05/02/2008 Hi WWM crew <<Hello, Andrew today>> I'm going to setup a 50 gallon saltwater FOWLR tank with separate trickle filter sump, protein skimmer and T5 lighting. The fish I want to keep in it are: 1.Coral Beauty 2.Long Nosed Butterfly fish 3. Royal Gramma Would these fish all be able to live happily in the tank? Would any other fish be able to live in it as well <<All the above fish would be fine in that aquarium. Any further purchases should be peaceful inhabitants like Goby, clown or blenny>> Thanks a lot, Dean <<Thanks for the questions, hope this helps. A Nixon>

Re: I Need A Quiet External Pump For My New 120g FOWLR System (Livestock Plan) 04/29/08 Thank you so much Eric for all your help. <<Is my pleasure>> I feel so much better about my pump concerns and plan to go with the Eheim. <<An excellent choice>> I also feel better about my LFS because of your comments. <<Ah, good>> I understand what pressures they're dealing with to keep alive, <<Indeed>> but I don't want to be stuck with buying inferior equipment either, << Sadly, cheap and inferior seems easier (too easy?) to sell. I know its easy for me to say, buteven though more expensive, beginning hobbyists might be more successful; and save a little money in the long run due to replacement, if offered and urged to by quality functioning gear from the start. One should at least have options/choices available if theyve done their homework and wish to be more discerning in their selections>> so I'll continue to support them as much as I can because I don't want to buy my livestock via mail order. <<The dollar savings from buying off the NET are very small usually, once you factor in shipping (less than $10 difference in my dealings and with my LFS), while the advantages of buying your livestock through an LFS you trust can be many>> So I'll do my best to keep them in business! <<Very good>> Speaking of livestock, you helped me solve my equipment problem, but what I thought was a good livestock plan sounds not so great by your comments. <<Yesin fact I strongly disagree with some aspects your plan as originally presented>> I seriously was taking the list from Michael Paletta's book, "The New Marine Aquarium". <<And much fine information to be found therebut we have a difference of opinions re stocking selection/densities>> It was the list for the 75 gal tank (I believe), <<Making it even more disagreeable to me>> so thought if that was good, then a 120 should be "under stocked". <<Not with a pair of Paracanthurus hepatus>> My two fish that I currently have in my 20 gal is the Tomato clown and the Green Mandarin (which I'm keeping fat and happy with frozen Cyclops, live and frozen brine shrimp and now I'm culturing copepods until my new refugium is up and running) - sorry - she was an impulse buy - my fault for not researching <<Yes[grin]>> and another LFS which I no longer frequent said was easy to care for and fine for a 20gal <<An all too common tale>> - but I take personal responsibility and am working hard to keep her happy. <<Very well>> So I do need to build my list around them, and knowing that the Tomato's reputation is that they don't always play nice in the sandbox, <<Pretty much true for all the Clownfishes. And ironically In more than three decades in the hobby (and including a brief stint working the retail side), clownfish species are the only fish to have ever drawn blood from me while working in the tank>> I'm hoping to come up with a good livestock list to go with him. I would like to keep the list as reef safe as possible in case I want to add "easy" corals at a later date. <<I see>> I love to watch them flow with the water movement - it's mesmerizing and relaxing. Is there a good suggested list to begin with knowing my starting point? <<Many choices But what do you like? Best to start with a list of desired fishes and then research them individually for compatibility and suitability to your system>> I've read for many hours on all the different types of fish and invertebrates (Bob and Anthony's Reef Invertebrates is a great book). <<Agreed>> I thought I had a good handle on the list until now. The recommended list was: 2 Yellow Tail Blue Hippo Tangs; which you said was too many for that tank and one was even pushing it. <<I did, yes>> I found from reading that these didn't grow as large <<Mmmwhere did you read this I wonder?>> as the yellow and purple's and the powder blue, so thought that was why he was recommending them and that they got along better as a pair compared to other tangs. <<I dont recommend a pair of any Tang/Surgeonfish from the same species for your tankand most certainly not Paracanthurus hepatus. This fish grows LARGER and more robust than the two Zebrasoma and one Acanthurus species you mention (to 12 in the wild>>. And in my opinion/experience, is one of the more high-strung and easily damaged (socially/psychologically) tang speciessuffering terribly from just being raised up in a too small system>> So you're vote is no for a 120g. <<Yes better choices available>> Any similar type fish that you would recommend - I'm for long term survival - I cry when any fish die - that's just me. <<Though I stated I dont recommend a pair from the same species (or genera, for that matter) for your tankI do think you could get away with two from differing genera, with some though to selection and introduction. The Yellow or Purple Tang would be a fine Zebrasoma choice for the 120and among Acanthurus species I think A. japonicus (White-Faced or Gold-Rimmed Tang) or A. pyroferus (Chocolate or Mimic Tang) are good choicesyou could also choose one of the smaller Ctenochaetus species if you wish like C. strigosus (Kole Tang)>> 7 Blue Green Chromis; these are ok? <<These are considered a more docile Damsel species, and are always a popular choice for a schooling fishbut with the exception of very large tanks (several hundred gallons and more), I dont really recall any instances where the subordinate individuals didnt all just disappear until only one or two specimens were left. As such, it is hard for me to recommend these. If you decide to give them a go, I do recommend no more than five for your tank>> I like to watch the schooling if not any other suggestions? <<Either Sphaeramia nematoptera (PJ or Pajama Cardinal) or Apogon leptacanthus (Threadfin or Longspine Cardinal) would be more successful rein my opinion. And againno more than five either species>> 1 Coral Beauty Angelfish; You said these are difficult to keep <<Many come in damaged from collection/shipping>> - so odd that he recommends for a beginner <<Differences of opinionthough they can be very hardy/long-lived if a healthy specimen can be obtained and acclimates well>> - what about other angelfish? <<Ah well, my personal fave Centropyge species is C. loricula (Flame Angel). These are gorgeous fish that do well in captive settingsand the best choice here I think>> 1 Longnose Hawkfish, 3 Banggai Cardinal fish, you said these would likely end up as a pair. <<Yes>> Why? Because one would be killed off?? <<Indirectly through stress, yes>> Then I only want to start with two...so these are better as pairs or more than 3? <<Results are much like those of the Chromis... And just purchasing a pair can be difficult as differences between sexes are not readily apparent (the male has a more angular head and a longer second dorsal fin)>> I want to add the Long-Spine Urchin because of the relationship they have with the cardinals <<Mmm more as juveniles than adults>> - similar to the clown and the anemone but urchins are hopefully hardier than the anemones. <<Diadema sp Urchins can get quite large and in my experience can be destructive in a reef system...but the choice is yours>> Any other suggestions? The more I read, the more I get nervous that I may mix Pacific fish with Atlantic and so on and really do want what's best for the fish. <<Do look up your choices/selections on fishbase.org. This site is very useful for determining locale/origin and for determining adult size of the fishes you are thinking of keeping>> Any suggestions for other invertebrates with these suggestions for a beginner? <<Hmm the Hawkfish will make adding shrimp difficult as they may be preyed uponbut do consider some detritus feeding snails like Nassarius sp and maybe a Brittle Starfish or two>> I wouldn't mind starting off with a known successful mix rather than trial and error by killing off perfectly helpless fish. <<Nothing is a guaranteeeven my selections [big grin]>> I've read the article on Steven Pro's 55 gal setup http://www.pmas.org/pro/ <<Ah yes, and do note how the tank is NOT filled up with rock>> but wish he would update us with his new 120 gal so I can see how he stocked it. <<Why not ask him to do so (http://forum.marinedepot.com/Forum14-1.aspx)>> Do you know what he ended up doing? <<Im afraid I dont>> He had a Maroon Clownfish-Premnas biaculeatus an Orange Tail Fiji Damsel-Chrysiptera cyanea, an Algae Blenny-Salarias fasciatus and a Yellow Tang-Zebrasoma flavescens in the 55 gal. My tomato has been with me since 2004 and has been playing nice with the mandarin who has been with me for over 6 mos. I couldn't find any sample combination lists in the FAQ sections, only very nice write ups on the individual species. Any help or direction you can point me to would be absolutely great. <<I hope I have done so>> I have plenty of time, my new tank has to cycle for a few months, but need to get my plan going so I know when to introduce my tomato - before or after the others to help keep the fighting to a minimum. I want a happy tank! Thanks so much Eric for all your help! <<Quite welcome>> Sorry my email is so long <<No worries>> - hopefully it gives you the info you need though to help me out! Jean <<Species selection is a serious process but is also part of the fun of system setup. Do keep reading/researching, and feel free to discuss with/bounce your selections off me if you wish. Regards, Eric Russell>>  

FOWLR/Compatibility 4/17/08 Hello-- <Hi Tom> Let me first off state that your website is a terrific resource. The volume of information is almost overwhelming! <Thank you.> I have a 75 gal reef tank that has been set up for about four years. For the most part its inhabitants have thrived, although I have quite a bubble algae problem on my hands. A few months ago my wife and I honeymooned in Kauai, and after returning home and thinking about it I decided I would like a long-term reminder of that trip. So I am planning on getting rid of the reef tank and constructing a FOWLR tank. It will be sad to say goodbye to the corals but I am pretty sure this is the direction I want long-term. I was planning on buying a new tank anyway, one with a built-in overflow, so one question is in regards to tank size. The fish I would like to keep include a Rectangular Trigger, a Raccoon Butterfly, a Dragon Wrasse, and a tang or two. I currently have a Blue Hippo tang in the reef tank and would like to keep it as I'm quite partial to it. Ideally I would also keep one Yellow Tang or one Convict Tang. Which would you recommend in this setup (or neither)? <Both the Dragon Wrasse and the Trigger are aggressive fish, they could be kept together but I wouldn't chance putting the tangs in there with them. As for the tangs, I'd go with a Yellow Tang, will give more color to the system and should get along well with the Hippo. Do add them  at the same time.> So am I missing any compatibility problems with these fish? What size tank will I need? <With the tangs, I'd go with at least a 125 gallon tank and go for length and width rather than height. The same would hold true for triggerfish and the Dragon Wrasse.> I know it would be out of place, but I have always loved lionfish. If I added one of them, what size tank would it need to be? <The above will work fine.> Finally, are there any species of coral that would likely survive? Everything seems to point to "no", but I am hoping there might be an exception that you are aware of. <I would not, the Dragon Wrasse is very adept at moving rock and pieces of rock landing on corals would lead to their demise. Triggerfish have the habit of looking under rocks for tidbits also, but do not have quite the rearranging skills of a Dragon Wrasse. Do search/read on our site on fish you have in mind before making any decisions, make sure compatibility and requirements can be met.> Thank you so much for the help. Have a great week. <Thank you. James (Salty Dog)> Sincerely, Tom

Inverts... title please... sel.  04/11/2008 Hello <<Hi, Andrew today>> I have a 72 gallon FOWLR tank. My stocking list looks like this: 2 Ocellaris clowns 1 Blue-green Chromis 1 Royal Gramma 1 Neon goby 1 Yellow tang 1 Scott's fairy wrasse 1 Flame Angel 1 Black brittle star 2 cleaner shrimp 30 Nassarius snails 5 Cerith snails I still have not purchased the wrasse or angel for my tank yet. <<I would suggest you don't have anymore room for more fish>> Fishwise my tank is pretty stocked and lately I've become interested in the inverts for my tank. I have been looking to add some but I am starting to get worried that I might overload the tank or worse off starve them to death as I do not like to overfeed my fish. I am looking to add 3 camel shrimp, an urchin (probably a pincushion) an emerald crab for my hair algae and a pink sandsifting cucumber. Would this be to much for my tank? <<I would add all besides the cucumber, its personal preference, but i have seen too many tanks go bad because of an issue with these, and to me, its not worth the risk. With regards to feeding / bioload...Its all fine, you should not experience any issues>> Thanks, Adam Law <<Hope this helps, thanks for the questions. A Nixon>>

Mixing Wrasse In FOWLRother stocking questions 3/31/08 Hi guys, <<Hello Brian.>> Got a quick question that I hope you can help me out with. <<I will try.>> I have a 72 gallon FOWLR. Currently in the tank include 2 ocellaris clowns, a yellow tang (3 inch), and 2 scarlet shrimp. A mystery wrasse 2.5 inch (Pseudocheilinus mysterii) was added last week. I wanted to add a few more wrasses but wanted to confirm compatibility. My LFS has a great looking Laboutei wrasse (Cirrhilabrus laboutei) and blue flasher wrasse, can those two be added together safely with my current stocking list? <<In all honesty, with one established wrasse, and considering the overall volume of the aquarium I would not.>> My plans to finish the tank will probably include a dwarf flame angel and possibly an Auriga butterfly. <<Skip the butterfly.>> Thanks in advance for you advice, ~ Brian <<Adam J.>>

A Centerpiece Fish Without The Bit! (Compatibility Query) -03/27/08 Hello, <Hey there! Scott F. in tonight!> About 3 months ago, we bought a 75 gallon tank with a CPR Backpack2 filter/skimmer and Emperor 400 BioWheel. Our levels all seem to be in check. We purchased a clean up package offered online including Hermit Crabs, 1 Arrow Crab, 1 Sally Lightfoot, 2 Emerald Crabs, Turbo and Nassarius snails, and 2 Peppermint Shrimp. We have 40 lbs of live rock and 80 lbs of live sand. Our first fish purchases included 2 Maroon Clowns and 1 Lawnmower Blenny. We have been looking for more tank mates and would really like to get a Canthigaster supramacula. What do you think about the compatibility of this fish with what we have? Or do you have any other suggestion for a "centerpiece" fish. <Well, the genus Canthigaster is filled with reasonably-sized fish that, although attractive and generally interesting, tend to be notorious for nipping and biting the fins off of their tankmates! I'd be hesitant to add this fish to your aquarium. Your fishes and invertebrates will thank you! An interesting "centerpiece" fish would be something like a Flame Hawkfish, or perhaps a trio of small Fairy Wrasses, or even a small Centropyge Angelfish (like C. argi, etc.)?> In addition, do we need to purchase an aerator or are our filters adequate for this job? <If the returns are breaking the surface tension of the water and creating some turbulence at the air/water interface, I don't think that you'll need additional aeration for your system.> Thanks Andrea <Glad to be of service! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

45 Gallon Fish Only Stocking 3/26/08 Hello WWM Crew! <Hello Michelle.> First of all, thank you for maintaining such a great website. It's been really useful for a newbie like me, and a good deal of my basic information has been gleaned from its resources. <Thank you, this site is a honor to be part of!> I'm starting my first saltwater tank (I've done numerous freshwater). I say "starting", but really I'm continuing a failed 45-gallon saltwater tank my friend gave to me, as a school project. There is nothing wrong with the tank; my friend just never got further than two inches of sand, a clownfish (*Amphiprion ocellaris)*, a striped damsel *(Dascyllus melanurus*)*,* and a black molly *(Poecilia latipinna)*. It has, however, been established for over a year and there are no issues. <That makes it a good start for you.> I run water tests daily and I believe I'm at the point where I can introduce new fish (quarantined first of course), but first I'd like to check a few things: My first question deals with equipment. On the tank there is only a Penguin Bio-Wheel Power Filter, a heater, and a hood with a built-in fluorescent light. My friend never got a protein skimmer and I was planning on getting one since it sounds like a MUST, but my LFS says that on a peaceful, small fish, 45-gallon tank a protein skimmer is really unnecessary. <I would not label a protein skimmer an absolute must. It does however make maintaining a higher water quality much easier. Look at a skimmer in service and ask yourself if you want the contents of the collection cup in your tank! Peaceful fish create waste too.> I'm like to check with you before I take the risk. <No risk, just a little cost.> Second, in regards to the environment, I am changing the sand and adding shells and bleached corals for hiding places, but I thought I'd work without live rock as much as possible for expense reasons (I'm running off a school budget; the tank is in my environmental science classroom). I don't know if not having LR will affect any of the fish I am planning to add. <Live rock is very beneficial and does make filtration generally easier, but it is not a must.> Here's the list: 2 skunk cleaner shrimp *(**Lysmata amboinensis)* 1 neon goby *(**Elacatinus **oceanops)* <I would not keep these in a fish only tank, they do better in reefs.> 1 royal Gramma *(Gramma loreto)* 1 firefish goby *(Nemateleotris magnifica)* 1 sixline wrasse *(Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)* <I would not include this fish. It can be aggressive.> 1 Banggai (Banggai?) cardinal (*Pterapogon kaudneri*)** Third, I am getting rid of the damsel because it has proven itself aggressive (it used to have 5 siblings), <Good, this was my next recommendation!> and the black molly can be moved to another tank if I am lacking in room. <Should be fine left in the tank.> But are eight small fish too many for a 45-gallon tank? <Excluding those mentioned above, you will be fine.> I can't seem to find an accurate gauge and I don't comprehend the "rule of thumb." <Check out: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/stocking1.htm and related articles/FAQs.> My largest problem is compatibility. I've done research to find peaceful, hardy fish, but I thought I'd double-check to make sure there weren't any issues. Are there any certain combos I should watch out for in my list? <Mentioned above.> I can't thank you enough for all you're doing. Warmest regards, Michelle <Welcome, thank you for writing, Scott V.>